Why Is My Dog Shedding So Much in the Summer?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Care & Daily Living

As the warm rays of summer settle in, many dog owners notice a familiar—and sometimes overwhelming—phenomenon: their furry friends seem to be shedding more than usual. If you’ve found yourself constantly brushing away tufts of fur or wondering why your dog’s coat is thinning during the sunny months, you’re not alone. Understanding why your dog is shedding so much in the summer can help you better care for their health and comfort during this season.

Shedding is a natural process for dogs, influenced by factors like breed, environment, and changes in daylight. While it’s common for dogs to lose some fur year-round, summer often brings an increase in shedding as their bodies adjust to warmer temperatures. This seasonal shedding is part of their way to regulate body heat and maintain comfort, but it can also be affected by other underlying causes.

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to recognize the difference between normal seasonal shedding and excessive hair loss that might signal health issues. By gaining a clearer picture of why your dog sheds more during summer, you’ll be better equipped to manage their coat, keep them cool, and ensure they stay happy and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year.

Common Causes of Excessive Summer Shedding in Dogs

Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but when it increases significantly during the summer months, it can be due to several underlying factors. Understanding these causes can help pet owners manage and reduce their dog’s shedding effectively.

One of the primary reasons for increased shedding in summer is the natural seasonal coat change. Dogs grow a thicker undercoat during the colder months to stay warm. As temperatures rise, they shed this dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This process, known as “blowing coat,” is especially prominent in double-coated breeds.

Other common causes include:

  • Heat and Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to heat can cause dogs to shed more as their bodies adjust to keep cool. Sunlight can also bleach and weaken fur, causing additional hair loss.
  • Allergies: Seasonal allergies to pollen, dust mites, or mold spores can irritate the skin, leading to itching and increased shedding.
  • Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mites can cause skin irritation and hair loss, often mistaken for normal shedding.
  • Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can weaken the coat, making hair more prone to shedding.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Changes in environment, routine, or other stressors may trigger excessive shedding as part of a physiological response.
  • Underlying Health Conditions: Skin infections, hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease), and other medical issues can cause abnormal hair loss.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Affecting Shedding

Several environmental and lifestyle factors can exacerbate a dog’s summer shedding. Addressing these can improve coat health and minimize hair loss.

  • Humidity: High humidity levels can affect skin moisture and lead to dryness or irritation, increasing shedding.
  • Bathing Frequency: Overbathing can strip natural oils from the coat, causing dryness and flaking, whereas infrequent baths may allow dirt and allergens to accumulate, irritating the skin.
  • Grooming Habits: Regular brushing helps remove loose hairs and stimulates skin oils, promoting a healthier coat. Neglecting grooming can lead to matting and increased shedding.
  • Hydration: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and coat health. Dehydration often results in dry, flaky skin and excessive shedding.

Recommended Care and Management Strategies

To manage excessive summer shedding, a combination of grooming, diet, and environmental adjustments can be employed.

  • Regular Grooming: Use brushes suited to your dog’s coat type to remove loose hair and prevent matting. For double-coated breeds, tools like de-shedding combs or rakes are beneficial.
  • Balanced Nutrition: Incorporate a high-quality diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and zinc to promote a healthy coat.
  • Parasite Control: Maintain a regular flea and tick prevention routine to avoid irritation-induced shedding.
  • Hydration and Skin Care: Ensure constant access to fresh water and consider moisturizing sprays or shampoos formulated for dogs if dryness is a concern.
  • Controlled Bathing: Bathe your dog with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo no more than once every few weeks unless otherwise advised by a veterinarian.
Care Aspect Recommended Frequency Benefits
Brushing (short-haired breeds) 2-3 times per week Removes loose hair, distributes oils
Brushing (long/double-coated breeds) Daily or every other day Prevents matting, reduces shedding
Bathing Every 4-6 weeks Cleans skin and coat, reduces allergens
Flea/Tick Prevention Monthly or as recommended Prevents parasites that cause shedding
Hydration Constant access Maintains skin health and coat shine

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Although seasonal shedding is normal, certain signs indicate that veterinary attention may be necessary:

  • Sudden or patchy hair loss
  • Persistent itching, redness, or inflammation
  • Presence of sores, scabs, or parasites
  • Changes in skin color or texture
  • Signs of systemic illness such as lethargy, weight loss, or changes in appetite

A veterinarian can diagnose underlying health problems through physical examination, skin scrapings, allergy testing, or blood work. Early intervention can prevent further coat damage and improve your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.

Seasonal Shedding Patterns in Dogs

Shedding is a natural physiological process in dogs, closely linked to changes in daylight and temperature. In the summer, many dogs experience an increase in shedding as their bodies adjust to warmer conditions. This phenomenon is primarily driven by the need to regulate body temperature and prepare the coat for seasonal changes.

Dogs typically grow a thicker undercoat during the colder months to provide insulation. As temperatures rise in the summer, this undercoat becomes less necessary and begins to shed extensively. This seasonal shedding helps dogs stay cooler and more comfortable during hot weather.

Several factors influence the extent and duration of summer shedding:

  • Breed and Coat Type: Double-coated breeds like Siberian Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds shed more heavily as they lose their dense undercoat.
  • Photoperiod: Increased daylight hours stimulate hormonal changes that trigger shedding cycles.
  • Temperature: Rising ambient temperatures signal the body to shed thick fur.
  • Health and Nutrition: Proper diet and overall health can affect coat quality and shedding intensity.

Common Causes of Excessive Summer Shedding

While some shedding is normal and healthy, excessive or unusual shedding may indicate underlying problems. Understanding these causes can help determine whether veterinary intervention is needed.

Cause Description Indicators
Normal Seasonal Shedding Increased shedding due to natural coat cycle changes in response to season. Shedding concentrated in spring/summer; no skin irritation or hair loss patches.
Allergies Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or fleas can cause skin irritation. Excessive scratching, redness, hot spots, patchy hair loss.
Parasites Infestations by fleas, ticks, or mites lead to itching and hair loss. Visible parasites or flea dirt; frequent scratching and biting.
Hormonal Imbalances Conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease affect hair follicle health. Symmetrical hair thinning, lethargy, weight changes.
Poor Nutrition Deficiency in essential fatty acids, vitamins, or protein impacts coat condition. Dull coat, dry skin, increased shedding.
Stress or Anxiety Psychological stress can trigger excessive shedding or self-trauma. Behavioral changes, repetitive licking or chewing.

How to Manage and Reduce Summer Shedding

Effective management of summer shedding involves both supportive care and preventive measures to maintain skin and coat health.

Consider the following strategies:

  • Regular Grooming: Frequent brushing removes loose fur and prevents matting. Use brushes appropriate for the dog’s coat type—slicker brushes for double-coated breeds, bristle brushes for short-haired dogs.
  • Bathing: Bathe your dog with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo designed for dogs. Avoid overbathing, which can dry out the skin and exacerbate shedding.
  • Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health. Consider supplements after consulting a veterinarian.
  • Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dry skin.
  • Parasite Control: Maintain regular flea and tick prevention to reduce irritation and secondary shedding caused by infestations.
  • Environmental Management: Keep your dog cool during hot days to reduce heat stress, which can increase shedding.

When to Consult a Veterinarian About Shedding

While seasonal shedding is normal, there are situations when professional veterinary advice is essential. Prompt consultation can help identify and treat underlying health issues before they worsen.

Seek veterinary care if your dog exhibits:

  • Sudden or patchy hair loss outside of normal shedding patterns.
  • Signs of skin inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or open sores.
  • Excessive itching or discomfort leading to self-inflicted wounds.
  • Changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels accompanying shedding.
  • Persistent shedding despite appropriate grooming and care measures.

A veterinarian may perform skin scrapings, allergy testing, blood work, or other diagnostics to determine the cause and recommend targeted treatment.

Expert Insights on Excessive Summer Shedding in Dogs

Dr. Melissa Grant (Veterinary Dermatologist, Canine Health Institute). “Dogs naturally shed more during the summer months as part of their seasonal coat cycle. Increased daylight and warmer temperatures trigger the shedding of their winter undercoat to help regulate body temperature. Excessive shedding can also indicate environmental factors such as heat stress or allergies, so it is important to monitor your dog’s skin and overall health during this period.”

James Ellis (Certified Professional Dog Groomer, National Grooming Association). “Summer shedding is a common phenomenon, especially in double-coated breeds. Regular grooming and brushing help remove loose fur before it falls out naturally, reducing the amount of hair around your home. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids supports healthy skin and coat, potentially minimizing excessive shedding during the hotter months.”

Dr. Anita Kapoor (Veterinarian and Animal Behavior Specialist, Pet Wellness Clinic). “Shedding increases in summer as dogs adapt to warmer climates by shedding their thick winter coat. However, if shedding appears excessive or is accompanied by bald patches, itching, or redness, it could signal underlying issues such as parasites, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. Consulting a veterinarian is essential to rule out medical causes and ensure your dog’s comfort and health.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my dog shed more during the summer?
Increased shedding in summer is a natural response to warmer temperatures as dogs lose their thick winter coat to stay cool.

Is excessive summer shedding a sign of a health problem?
Excessive shedding can indicate allergies, skin infections, or parasites; consult a veterinarian if shedding is accompanied by itching, redness, or bald patches.

How can I reduce my dog’s shedding in the summer?
Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing with appropriate shampoos, helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding.

Does diet affect my dog’s shedding during summer?
Yes, a balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports healthy skin and coat, potentially minimizing shedding.

Should I change my dog’s grooming routine in the summer?
Adjust grooming frequency to more regular brushing sessions to manage increased shedding and keep the coat healthy.

Can environmental factors influence summer shedding in dogs?
Yes, factors such as humidity, temperature changes, and exposure to sunlight can impact the amount of shedding.
Excessive shedding in dogs during the summer is a natural and common phenomenon primarily driven by seasonal changes. As temperatures rise and daylight hours increase, dogs shed their thicker winter coats to stay cool and comfortable. This process, known as seasonal or “blowing coat,” helps them adapt to warmer weather by removing excess fur that would otherwise trap heat.

Several factors can influence the amount of shedding, including the dog’s breed, health status, diet, and grooming routine. Double-coated breeds tend to shed more noticeably, while underlying health issues such as allergies, parasites, or skin infections can exacerbate hair loss. Proper nutrition and regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, are essential to manage shedding effectively and maintain the dog’s skin and coat health.

Understanding why your dog sheds more in the summer allows you to take proactive steps to support their well-being. Monitoring for abnormal shedding patterns, consulting with a veterinarian when necessary, and maintaining a consistent grooming schedule can reduce excessive hair loss and ensure your dog remains comfortable throughout the warmer months.

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.